Yahoo News Norovirus outbreak sparks 'strict hygiene' warning amid 'alarmingly high' cases
The UK is currently grappling with a significant rise in norovirus cases, prompting health officials to advise people to follow d=strict hygiene rules as the virus spreads.
Health authorities have sounded the alarm, with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issuing a critical alert about the surge in cases of this highly contagious disease. The UKHSA has noted that the current levels of the virus are unusually high for this time of year and have not followed the expected pattern of decline usually seen in spring.
The dreaded winter vomiting bug leads to severe outbreaks of diarrhoea and vomiting. As reported by the Express, confirmed cases of norovirus are 75 percent higher than the five-year average, according to data from the health authority.
Experts suggest that the unseasonably cold weather experienced in May, along with factors related to the post-Covid situation, may be contributing to the resilience of this virulent strain. Those who have contracted the illness are being advised to maintain strict hygiene practices and avoid going to work.
Amy Douglas, a Norovirus Epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: "Norovirus levels were higher in April than we would usually see at this time of year and have been increasing. This is likely due to a combination of factors, but the colder weather we have had won't have helped."
She added: "If you have got diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don't prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.
"Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don't rely on these alone."
In related news, a cruise ship riddled with hundreds of cases of Norovirus has been put under lockdown while health agencies investigate. Numerous passengers have shared their terrifying experiences in recent weeks after boarding the PandO Ventura from Southampton.
